Forget the Spanish city’s sun, sea and stunning architecture, creative inspiration can just as likely arise over a cup of coffee in one of the city’s cafés, says local stylist Gudy Herder

Barcelona. A hub of culture and creativity. A city that edges onto the surf, known for its lively centre and the creative minds that work and thrive there. Eager to understand the secrets of the city, Heart Home caught up with resident interior stylist and trend forecaster Gudy Herder, who was keen to show us around the cafés where she finds inspiration…

Jaime Beriestain’s Concept Store. With exposed brickwork and elegant furniture, the recently opened café is the perfect place “to have a coffee in the city centre and have a meeting about styling and interior design”, says Gudy.

The diner style benches provide just the right amount of privacy to have a quiet meeting, but that’s not all the concept store has to offer. “I like going there early, right after they open and then take a walk around the shop, browse among the great books they have and leave again loaded with inspiration,” she adds.

Jaime Beriestain

If a quiet meeting isn’t the order of the day, Gudy heads toFederal Café in the Sant Antoni neighbourhood. The ideal venue for rubbing shoulders with other creative people, Gudy says the café has “a relaxed yet respectful atmosphere”.

The two-story café has a bold and simple style, with small seating areas as well as big communal tables. “We all sit with our laptops to enjoy an excellent breakfast, good music and a very casual atmosphere,” says Gudy. “Sometimes we get some work done too…” But work is a lot less likely in the warmer months, when the café opens up its rooftop terrace – “it’s heaven on Earth,” says Gudy.

Federal Café

If you’re planning on leaving your laptop at home, the Granja PetitBois a great location for a “casual encounter early in the morning”. The popular, high ceilinged café boasts plenty of vintage charm so gets pretty busy as the day goes on.

“I like to spend time there, people watch and meet other bloggers,” says Gudy. “If you are looking for a young and trendy atmosphere, this is probably the right place for you.”

Heart Home

Launched in September 2011, British Interior Design magazine Heart Home is a quarterly publication celebrating all that is unique and good about interior decor and lifestyle. Championing independent British Designers and inspiring readers to create their own great British Homes.

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